Gene Stanley Welch, Sr.

Gene Stanley Welch, Sr., age 84, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 2, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, family, and hard work.

Services for Gene will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2026 in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the interment to follow at Forrest Memorial Park. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening, May 5, 2026 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Wells Funeral Home.

Born on November 1, 1941, in Ripley, Mississippi, Gene was the son of William Welch and Bertie Moore Welch. He was raised alongside his siblings—Bondy Welch, Aileen Bridges, Francis Jenne, Catherine Chapman, and Becky Murphy of Iuka, Mississippi, who survives him—forming strong family bonds that remained important throughout his life.

Gene lived a life defined by perseverance and vision. In 1974, he founded Tri-Star Mechanical Contractors, beginning humbly in a garage in Southaven, Mississippi. Through determination and skill, he grew the company and later relocated to Batesville in 1978, where his business and reputation continued to flourish. Gene was widely respected as a gifted businessman and leader—known by those who loved him as one of the most intelligent people they had ever known.

Gene was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, DeAnna Dean Welch, with whom he shared 62 wonderful years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on love, family, and unwavering support.

He was a proud father to his daughter, DeAnn Welch Scott and her husband Wade of Batesville, Mississippi, and to his son, Stan Welch, who preceded him in death. He is also survived by his daughter-in-law, Melissa Welch of Batesville, Mississippi.
Gene’s greatest joy was his family. He was a loving grandfather to Meredith Welch, Braiden Scott, Hannah Welch, Graysen Scott, and Lena-Grace Franklin, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness. His role as a father, grandfather, and friend was one he cherished deeply, and he leaves behind countless memories that will be treasured by all who knew him.

Gene found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved traveling, with a special fondness for trips to Canada, where he delighted in fishing. In his adulthood, he enjoyed skiing and spending time fishing at Sardis Lake. Whether at work or at leisure, Gene approached everything with passion and enthusiasm.

Above all, Gene will be remembered as a loving son, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and loyal friend. His legacy lives on through his family, his business, and the many lives he touched throughout the years. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene's honor may be made to the American Cancer Society or Le Bonheur Children's Hospital. Le Bonheur

The family would like to invite friends for a reception at the Ice House in Batesville following the services.